Is an electric vehicle better for the environment?

Is an electric vehicle actually better for the environment? Hannah Ritchie, deputy editor at Our World In Data, says yes. She explains that while EVs require more energy to manufacture—particularly for their batteries—they quickly recoup this initial carbon cost through cleaner operation. In the UK, for example, the extra emissions from production are typically offset within two years of driving, after which the vehicle consistently emits far less CO₂ than a comparable petrol or diesel car. "Over the lifetime of the car, you're probably talking about a reduction of 1/2 to 2/3 compared to a petrol or diesel car"